Wildcat saviors close deal with Resnick

Real Estate Weekly, March 5, 2008 by Jason Turcotte

The cat's out of the bag for a floor-through lease at 8 West 40th Street. Jack Resnick & Sons Inc. just closed on a seven-year lease for the Panthera Foundation, an organization that concentrates on the conservation of wildcats.

Built in 1916, the 21-story class-B property just off Fifth Avenue is 100% leased. The 127,273 s/f building underwent renovations 20 years ago. Its features include a modern lobby, high ceilings, 24-hour security, views of Bryant Park and close proximity to major transportation hubs: Grand Central, Penn Station and Port Authority.

Founded in 2006, the London-based Panthera, has a mission to protect 36 wildcat species including lions, panthers and cheetahs. The organization took the site's entire 18th floor. The group conducts scientific research, fundraises and fosters awareness in conservation of such wildlife, which safeguards in protecting healthy ecosystems. It aims to save such species within their natural habitats, in both a scientific and sustainable manner. The organization accomplishes this by collaborating with some of the world's top conservationists, but also makes its educational mission accessible on a local, national and international level.

The building's owner is listed as AB 40th Street LLC. Resnick did not want to disclose any information regarding the lease but the Spector Group has been tapped as the architects for the Panthera office design.

According to its Web site, Resnick is also marketing a 6,667 s/f space on the fifth floor of 8 W. 40th Street.